The solemn ceremony Wednesday in Bicentennial Park honored the fallen

officers who gave their lives in service to their community.

From the playing of "Taps" to the heartfelt dedication speech, the ceremony

was laced with emotion.

And that emotion runs deep this week across our country as we memorialize the

fallen police and law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty. To

date, more than 15,000 have died across America. And this week, at ceremonies

just like the one held Wednesday in Troy, the 700,000 sworn officers will be

thinking about their fallen brothers and sisters. And, perhaps in a sobering

moment, the communities are realizing just how much these officers are

willing to sacrifice for their country.

There is no doubt that this year’s memorial cuts more deeply as we continue

to reel from the terrorist attacks of 9-11, when more than 70 New York City

police officers died. A bit of our innocence, of our hearts, died with them

that day.

Events like this memorial week keep the memory of these officers alive in our

hearts and our thoughts, and give us pause each year to reflect on the

sacrifices they are willing to make to protect our safety.

We should say a prayer for these brave men and women, and their families and

friends left behind, just as we should pray for those who continue to protect

and serve.  

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